Four top media organizations in Kenya have filed a constitutional petition against the government over its decision to suspend live television coverage of the June 25 anti-government protests, terming it a direct assault on media freedom and the public’s right to information.

The Kenya Union of Journalists, Kenya Editors Guild, Association of Media Women in Kenya, and Kenya Correspondents Association moved to the High Court, accusing the state of violating key provisions of the Constitution that protect press freedom and freedom of expression.

In their petition, the groups argue that the government directive, issued through the Communications Authority of Kenya, infringes on Articles 33, 34, and 35 of the Constitution, which safeguard freedom of expression, media independence, and access to information.

“The decision and actions of the 1st Respondent are in violation of Kenya’s international obligations under Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,” reads part of the petition, citing global standards that reinforce the right to information.

The media groups also argue that the ban on live broadcasts amounts to unfair administrative action under Article 47, and undermines national values outlined in Article 10, such as transparency and accountability.

They are asking the court to declare the broadcast suspension unconstitutional and to issue orders barring any future interference by the state in the operations of media houses.

They also want a directive compelling the Communications Authority to immediately restore all disrupted signals on digital platforms.

On Wednesday night, the High Court issued a temporary order suspending the directive by the Communications Authority that barred live coverage of the ongoing protests.

Justice Chacha Mwita, in his ruling delivered on June 25, said: “I am satisfied that [the pleadings] raise fundamental constitutional questions touching on potential violation of the Bill Of Rights in the Constitution and freedom of the Media calling for intervention by this court.”

“A conservatory order is hereby issued suspending, with immediate effect, the directive Ref No. CA/CE/BC/TV90A or any other directive issued by Communication Authority of Kenya to all television and radio stations directing them to stop live coverage of the demonstrations of 25th June 2025 or any other demonstrations, until the hearing and determination of the application and petition,” he said.

The court also ordered that any broadcasting signals that had been switched off as a result of the directive be restored without delay.

The Communications Authority had cited public order and safety concerns in its decision to stop the live airing of the protests, but its move drew strong backlash from journalists, civil society, and the public who said it undermined the constitution and democratic values.

The court directed all parties involved in the petition to file their responses within three days. The next hearing is scheduled for July 2, 2025.